Mumbai doctors observe surge in endometriosis cases among women aged 20-40

There is a concerning increase in endometriosis cases among women aged 2040 according to some Mumbai doctors The condition which often goes undiagnosed for years can impact womenrsquos quality of life and fertility if left untreatedEndometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus on places like the ovaries or fallopian tubes It can cause severe pain in the pelvis and make it harder to get pregnantAccording to the World Health Organization endometriosis affects roughly 10 per cent of reproductive age women globallyDr Swetha Lalgudi Gynaecologist Zynova Shalby Hospital informs ldquoWe are seeing a 10 per cent rise in endometriosis cases among women aged 2040 Around 1 in 10 women per month get diagnosed with the conditionrdquoExplaining more about the condition Dr Pooja Madhav Gynaecologist Apollo Spectra Mumbai says ldquoEndometriosis is most commonly seen in women aged 2040 because this is the reproductive age group when hormonal fluctuations tend to happen The condition is influenced by estrogen levels which are higher during these years Many women delay seeking help due to stigma or misunderstanding when it comes to menstrual pain leading to late diagnosis and lack of management of the conditionrdquoThis underscores the need for awareness early detection and effective management of the conditionSymptoms of endometriosisCommon symptoms of endometriosis include severe pelvic pain painful period pain during intercourse fatigue and in some cases infertilityldquoSymptoms such as pelvic pain painful sex heavy menstruation spotting between period and painful urination shouldnrsquot be ignored by women Report these symptoms to the doctor without any delay to get an accurate diagnosis of endometriosis and start treatment on an immediate basisrdquo suggests Dr LalgudiEffects of endometriosisUntreated endometriosis can significantly affect womenrsquos health and quality of lifeldquoUntreated endometriosis can lead to severe complications including chronic pelvic pain infertility and the formation of ovarian cysts or adhesionsrdquo says Dr MadhavDr Lalgudi adds ldquoEndometriosis hurts a womanrsquos fertility by damaging reproductive organs such as ovaries and fallopian tubes through scar tissue inflammation or cyst formation These changes can interfere with egg release fertilisation or implantation in the uterusrdquoManaging endometriosisWhile endometriosis is a severe condition it can be managed using several techniquesldquoManaging endometriosis involves a combination of medications hormonal therapies regular exercise a balanced diet and destressing with yoga and meditation In severe cases laparoscopic surgery may be recommended to remove endometrial tissuerdquo informs Dr MadhavldquoThose women with endometriosis who wish to become pregnant can opt for ARTs such as In Vitro Fertilisation IVF and egg freezing Women should go for regular health checkups and followups to stay updated regarding their reproductive healthrdquo concludes Dr LalgudiDisclaimer This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidanceAlso ReadNew FOGSI president unveils initiatives to transform womenrsquos healthcare in India